For children learning about courage and hope in difficult times, this historical novel shows the resilience of a young girl seeking refuge and a new beginning.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing a major life upheaval or needs a story that models incredible courage and hope in the face of adversity. Set during the Mexican Revolution, twelve-year-old Petra Luna must lead her grandmother and younger siblings across a dangerous desert to seek refuge in the United States after her father is taken and her village is destroyed. The story powerfully explores themes of resilience, family love, and the true meaning of home. For ages 8 to 12, this historical novel offers a moving, personal perspective on the refugee experience, making it an excellent choice for fostering empathy and opening conversations about history and immigration.
Family deaths are discussed from the past. Supporting characters die during the events of the book.
Sad ThemesModerate
Deals with the trauma of war, family separation, and the loss of home and country.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the violence of war, family separation, death (off-page and witnessed), and the hardships of being a refugee. The tone is realistic about the dangers and losses the family faces. The approach is secular, though the characters' faith is part of their cultural identity. The resolution is hopeful, as they achieve their immediate goal of crossing the border, but it's grounded in the reality of their trauma and uncertain future.
Ideal Reader
A thoughtful, empathetic child aged 9-12 who is ready for a more serious historical survival story. It is especially resonant for a child curious about their own family's immigration history or trying to understand current events about refugees and border crises. It suits a reader who loves determined, strong female protagonists.
Parent Prep
Parents should preview the opening chapters describing the village being burned and the final chapters depicting the battle at the international bridge. These scenes are intense and contain descriptions of violence and widespread panic. Providing some simple historical context about the Mexican Revolution beforehand will help a child understand the family's motivations and the dangers they face. A parent might seek this book after their child asks questions about news reports of war or refugees, like, "Why do people have to leave their homes?" It can also be a tool to introduce the historical context behind immigration from Mexico in a deeply personal way.
Age Experience
A younger reader (8-9) will likely focus on the adventure and survival aspects of the story, connecting with Petra's bravery and her fierce love for her family. An older reader (10-12) will better grasp the complex historical context, the social injustices of the revolution, and the profound emotional weight of becoming a refugee and losing one's homeland.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many historical immigration novels, this book is almost entirely focused on the perilous journey rather than the challenges of assimilation. It provides a child's-eye view of the refugee experience during a specific, often overlooked historical event (the Mexican Revolution), making history feel immediate and personal. The author's note, explaining that the story is based on her own great-grandmother's experience, adds a layer of authenticity and emotional power.
Read plot summary
In 1913 Mexico, during the revolution, twelve-year-old Petra Luna's village is burned by Federales who conscript her father. Following his final wish, Petra becomes the head of her family, guiding her abuela and two young siblings on a perilous journey north. They trek across the desert, facing starvation, bandits, and the chaos of war, all while clinging to the hope of reaching the safety of the U.S. border.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
Petra carries a small bag of dirt from her home throughout her journey. Why do you think this was so important to her? If you had to leave your home suddenly, what one small thing would you take to remember it by?
2
Abuelita tells Petra, "Dreams are not a place for cowards." What does she mean by this? Find a moment in the story where Petra shows she is not a coward in her actions or her dreams.
3
During the chaotic scene at the bridge, Petra has to make a very difficult choice to save her family. Do you think she made the right decision? What might you have done in her place?
4
Petra's promise to her Papá to keep the family safe is a heavy weight on her shoulders. How does this promise guide her decisions and give her strength, even when she is scared?
